A genital tract prolapse is a weakness ofthe supporting structures of the uterus (womb), pelvic floor and vagina.
- Weakness in the front walls of the vagina (cystocele) is when the bladder is pushing into the vagina
- Weakness in the back walls of the vagina (rectocele) is when the rectum is pushing into the vagina
- Weakness of the supports to the uterus (pelvic prolapse)
- Weakness in the upper part of the vagina which can cause a hernia (entrocele)
Prolapsed bladders (cystocele) can cause a variety of problems like discomfort and urinary incontinence.
Treatment
Oestrogen replacement
This can be in the form of a cream which is put into the
vagina.
Pelvic floor exercises
These are easy to learn and can be taught to you by the
continence nurse specialist.
Surgery
If conservative treatments do not improve the problem or are inappropriate, then surgery might be an option.
Pessary
A ring pessary can be inserted into the vagina which will hold the prolapse back.
Abdominal sacrocolpopexy
Sometimes the body’s natural supporting structures are weakened and the vagina slips down from its normal position. Weakness of these supporting structures may be due to vaginal childbirth, aging, hysterectomy and changes in your hormone levels.
An abdominal sacrocolpopexy is an operation performed through a cut in the abdomen (tummy). It lifts the vagina or uterus back into its normal position by attaching a piece of synthetic mesh between the top of the vagina and a bone in the lower part of the spine. This is the gold standard treatment for all types of prolapse and is usually recommended as first-line treatment for more severe prolapse problems. As the mesh is placed via the abdomen and not via the vagina, it is considered very safe and is not associated with the complications seen with vaginal mesh placement. Your urologist will discuss if this is right for you.
Click on the image above to download our Prolapse patient information booklet
Click the image above to download our Abdominal sacrocolpopexy information booklet